Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Lianna]

Hi Guys,

When I was in the process of applying for the GEPIK 2014 fall intake I searched for current information on the costs involved for folks in Toronto but didn't see anything with an itemized list so I wanted to share my costs for those who are going through the same process now (sorry if this post is already out there.

University Transcript - $15.00 each (I requested 2 copies)
RCMP Criminal Record Check with digital fingerprint (from Commissionaires) - $75.85
Notary Public (found on Torontonotary) - $25.00 each (I had my CRC and degree notarized)
Xpresspost envelope - $17.35 (I couldn't make it to the Korean consulate in Toronto during regular business hours due to my work schedule but you can avoid this fee if you can visit in person. I also paid for the largest envelope because I didn't want my degree damaged. There are smaller prepaid envelopes available)
Bubble mailer - $2.99 (I put my documents and money in the unsealed Xpresspost envelope because it was more sturdy, then put the Xpresspost envelope into the largest bubble mailer the post office had)
Consular Fees - $4.00 each (for my CRC and degree)
Next day mail with tracking - $10.98 (decided to pay a bit more to ensure my package arrived safely since my degree and notarized documents were enclosed)

In total, I have spent $195.17!

Some advice based on my experience!

1) The Korean consulate only kept 1 copy of my transcripts and sent back the other with my notarized documents . I had read previous posts saying we should have a couple copies of our transcripts so you can save some money by just ordering 1 copy.
2) If you can visit the Korean consulate in person its worth it, you can avoid the $30+ I spent.
3) Shop around for a notary in your area, I made a few calls and had rates between $50 and $130. Just make sure they are qualified.
4) Get both your RCMP check and degree notarized at the same time. Notaries often provide discounts for multiple documents in 1 session. The person I spoke to at the consulate said the CRC didn't need to be notarized but I've read other posts that it does so I did it just to be safe since I was mailing my documents. You may want to double check this as well, especially if you are going in person.
5) Make photo copies of your ID, degree, CRC at home if you have a printer.
6) Avoid the fees to get a passport photo taken in a store and utilize online passport photo sites and follow the instructions to get professional looking photos (there are a ton of these!). Put them on a USB and carry them to a Walmart or Staples so you can print the photos yourself. Or print them at home if you have a photo printer.
7) Do not get a CRC from your local police (if you live in Toronto) because you won't be able to use it and it costs about $55 before tax. You need to get a CRC done through the RCMP and have digital fingerprints taken. If you live in Toronto, the RCMP and regional police DO NOT provide vulnerable sector checks for those teaching outside of Canada. You can request one, but you'll likely get the same letter I did saying they are only provided for those working with minors in Canada. I'm only speaking based on my experience in Toronto, so you may be able to get one if you live in another province or city.

Hope this helps, and good luck!

[ttompatz]

Just a side note: The VSS is NOT needed and outside of Canada, no one knows or cares about it.

.

[coryallan]

Things may have changed since I came over at the end of 2012, but all you should need is a regular background check from your local police department. In Toronto it needs to be from Police Headquarters on College St. as the other divisions no longer do them.

You could also go to the police station in Aurora (where I went) and it is $45 for a same day police check.